Kevin Ryan, a prominent figure in Connecticut politics and community service, passed away on November 23, 2023, at the age of 73 after a courageous battle with cancer. His contributions to the community and public service have left a lasting impact, and he is remembered for his dedication and leadership.
Born on August 1, 1950, in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, Ryan moved with his family to Montville, Connecticut, at the age of five. After graduating from St. Bernard’s High School, he attended Villanova University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He later pursued a Doctorate in Optometry and a certificate in Public Health from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry, where he also served on the Board of Trustees. Additionally, Ryan obtained a Master of Arts in Community Psychology from the University of New Haven.
Ryan’s professional life was marked by a commitment to service. He began his career at the Connecticut Visual Health Center in Bridgeport while also working at his family’s business, Uncas Foods, Inc. He later became an adjunct faculty member at the University of New Haven, teaching Physics from 1980 onward. His tenure at Mobile Medical Testing Service, later renamed Exemplar Health Services, lasted until 2003.
His dedication to public service was evident throughout his career. Ryan served on the Montville Board of Education for six years, including a term as Chairman. In 1992, he was elected to the Connecticut House of Representatives, where he represented the 139th legislative district for over three decades. Notably, he held the position of Co-Chairman of the Labor and Public Employees Committee for eight years and recently served as Assistant Deputy Speaker Pro Tempore.
On a national level, Ryan was involved in several legislative and leadership organizations. He served as President and Treasurer of the National Conference of Legislators from Gaming States and was Treasurer of the Summit of Rural and Agricultural Leaders. His leadership extended to his recent appointment as National Chair of the Council of State Governments.
Ryan was actively engaged in community organizations as well. His membership in the Rotary, Elks, and Knights of Columbus highlighted his commitment to local initiatives. He was also a past Chair of the Montville Democratic Town Committee and served as a Justice of the Peace. His contributions included serving as President of the Board for Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Southeastern Connecticut and participating in the Alliance for Living Board of Directors.
He is survived by his cousins, including Martha, Thomas, George, Mark, and John McGuane, along with his godson, Mackenzie Caron, and many friends. The family expresses gratitude to the teams at Fairview Rehab and Nursing Home, West Hartford Health and Rehabilitation Center, and Yale New Haven Hospital for their compassionate care during his illness.
A visitation for family and friends will take place on December 4, 2025, from 16:00 to 19:00 at Cummings Gagne Funeral Home, located at 82 Cliff Street, Norwich, Connecticut. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on December 5, 2025, at 10:00 at St. John the Evangelist Church, 22 Maple Avenue, Uncasville, Connecticut. Attendees are asked to meet directly at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alliance for Living, Inc., 154 Broad St, New London, CT 06320. The family appreciates the love and support from friends during this difficult time. Kevin Ryan’s legacy of service and community engagement will be remembered by all who knew him.
